OSOYOOS COTTAGES

Emergency Response Manual

ON SITE HAZARDS

PAGE 9

RATTLESNAKE SAFETY

Hiding in culverts
Hiding in culverts
Crossing the road
Crossing the road
Nesting with babies
Nesting with babies
Light coloured
Light coloured
Dark coloured
Dark coloured
Watch for teeth
Watch for teeth
Waiting for prey
Waiting for prey

If you encounter a rattlesnake on the property, simply back away.

Rattlesnake bites are rare in B.C., and are almost never fatal.  

It the event of an actual, or probable bite, take the following steps:

  • Quickly back away from the snake.
  • Call 911, and arrange transport to the nearest hospital.
  • Have the victim lie down to reduce physical movement, and keep the bitten body part below the heart. 
  • Remove any restrictive clothing or jewelry located near the bite.
  • Mark the extent of the swelling with a pen or pencil, every 10 minutes, if possible, to help the doctors assess the severity of the bite.
  • Treat the victim for shock.
  • DO NOT apply a tourniquet.
  • DO NOT apply ice.
  • DO NOT make a cut at the bite site.
  • DO NOT attempt to suck out the venom.
  • Always seek immediate medical attention.

Rattlesnakes in B.C. are considered ‘threatened’ under Federal legistation, and are a protected species.  It is illegal to harm, capture or kill a rattlesnake.  

If you do see one on the property, please call the Operations Manager at (250) 315-2848

 

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